Houston City Council has approved additional funding for George Bush Intercontinental Airport’s (IAH) Terminal Redevelopment Program (ITRP).
This 1.458 billion USD project aims to deliver a modern facility that will cater to increased passenger demands and provide a seamless travel experience from curb to gate.
Due to challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, global supply chain disruptions and market volatility, the project’s budget has overrun. However, this has been contained to a 6.5 percent increase above the baseline budget of 1.36 billion USD.
This percentage increase is considered a successful outcome considering airport construction projects globally currently tend to experience budget overruns averaging 39 percent.
The budget increase has thus been approved by Houston City Council.
Jim Szczesniak, Director of Aviation for Houston Airports said:Council’s approval and support is a critical step forward for the IAH Terminal Redevelopment Program. Change is coming to Bush Airport. This funding will ensure Houston Airports continue the contracts necessary to get ITRP to the finish line, which is scheduled for 2025.
George Bush Intercontinental Airport’s (IAH) Terminal Redevelopment Program (ITRP) includes three major components:
- The revitalisation of the existing Terminal D, which was completed in 2023
- An expansion of Terminal D, featuring a new D-West Pier, which is expected to open in Summer 2024
- The construction of a new International Central Processor, scheduled for completion in Winter 2024 and Summer 2025
The new Terminal D-West Pier will introduce six new aircraft gates for international wide-body aircraft, convertible to ten new gates for narrowbody aircraft.
Meanwhile, the International Central Processor ticketing hall will allow United Airlines to move its Terminal E passenger processing to the new facility. This is set to improve the overall customer experience and traffic flow.
In addition, expanded baggage handling systems and enhanced curbside lanes for Departures and Arrivals will help accommodate growing passenger numbers.
Szczesniak said:Once complete, ITRP will be a game-changing investment for Houston as it welcomes millions more visitors through a world-class facility. Houston Airports holds strong as a primary economic engine for the City of Houston, generating $36.4 billion in annual economic impact for the region. Our new terminal is only anticipated to widen our crucial impact on Houston’s economy.
The construction costs of the new terminal are anticipated to be recouped through revenue streams derived from airline and passenger fees, concessions, and parking.
